Luuka district has been grappling with a disturbing trend of electricity wire theft, severely hampering the local economy. In response, Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Ronald Katende has taken a firm stance against what he calls “economic terrorism” and vowed to root out the perpetrators.
The issue of cutting electricity wires has plagued Luuka for some time, with areas like Naigobya, Busala, Nakabugu, Nakisene, and Kyanvuma bearing the brunt of the disruptions. The Kaliro line, crucial for powering Luuka, has been repeatedly targeted, causing widespread power outages and hindering businesses in the region.
RDC Ronald Katende convened a meeting with stakeholders, including utility provider UMEME, at Naigobya trading center to address the escalating situation. Expressing grave concern over the impact on the district’s economy, Katende emphasized the need for decisive action to apprehend those responsible.
“At this moment, Luuka is plagued by economic terrorists who disrupt the livelihoods of our people. I will not rest until these individuals are brought to justice,” stated RDC Katende during the meeting.
Luuka District Police Commander, SP Nditta Nasibbu, pledged to bolster security measures, deploying additional officers and launching operations to apprehend the culprits. While acknowledging the challenges, Nasibbu assured the community of police efforts to restore order and ensure safety.
Despite suspicions from some residents implicating UMEME officials in the wire-cutting incidents, UMEME vehemently denied any involvement. Mugweri Abel, a network engineer at the Iganga branch, stressed UMEME’s commitment to resolving the issue swiftly. However, he acknowledged the possibility that former UMEME employees, colloquially known as “Bakamyufu,” could be involved and urged cooperation with authorities to apprehend them.
Residents, frustrated by the recurring outages, have taken matters into their own hands by compiling a list of suspects and submitting it to the RDC and DPC for investigation. They called for vigilance, particularly towards former UMEME employees, and urged community cooperation in identifying and apprehending those responsible.
UMEME has undertaken efforts to restore electricity supply, working diligently to replace the damaged wires and alleviate the hardships faced by residents.
